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Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve adventures

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve Adventures

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve offers expansive views, rugged landscapes, and diverse wildlife across its vast acreage in the Santa Cruz Mountains, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

18,000
Acres Protected
60+
Miles of Trails
100,000+
Annual Visitors
1978
Year Established

About Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
 

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, located in the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains of California, is renowned for its sweeping panoramic views and rugged terrain. Spanning over 18,000 acres, it serves as a critical habitat for an array of wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and an assortment of bird species. Historically, the area was significant to the indigenous Ohlone people and later became an area of interest during the mid-19th-century California mineral boom. Visitors to the preserve can explore over 60 miles of trails that wind through rolling hills and dense forests, providing opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and nature photography. Noteworthy features such as Mount Umunhum offer an extraordinary vantage point at over 3,000 feet, where visitors can see as far as the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. With its rich biodiversity and captivating landscapes, Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Highlights

Highlight

Mount Umunhum Summit with its expansive views and historical radar tower.

Highlight

The unique chaparral and oak woodland ecosystems providing habitat for diverse wildlife.

Highlight

Hicks Road, a scenic route with challenging terrains for mountain biking.

Highlight

Woods Trail, offering a secluded hiking experience through the heart of the preserve.

Notable Natural Features

Mount Umunhum

Offers panoramic views and is home to the historic Almaden Air Force Radar Tower.

Guadalupe Reservoir

A scenic spot for photography and bird watching.

Hicks Road

Provides a challenging route for mountain biking enthusiasts.